5 Tips When Flossing From Your Periodontist

1.     Buy floss that tastes good to you. Nothing is worse than trying to convince yourself that you should participate in something day in and day out when the taste of it is horrible. You want floss that is calling your name in the morning and in the evening.

2.     If fingers or dexterity are an issue, use floss pics. We know that flossing is a habit that has known health benefits. It’s important to stay focused on what matters when flossing, and that is getting the job done correctly. If you struggle to get the floss to your back molars that is a critical area where trouble may be brewing.

3.     Start with a string of floss that is 18 inches long. When flossing, shorter is not better. You need the adequate length to make sure that you can get between all of your teeth.

4.     Flossing can be done before or after brushing-but it should be done daily. Periodontist Dr. Denine Rice, suggests to her patients, “You only have to floss the teeth you want to keep.” If you’re not brushing once a day, you run the risk of developing deep pockets that harbor bacteria and eventually lead to periodontal disease.

5.     Wrap floss around your fingers and move the floss as you move through the mouth. You don’t want to wrap the floss around your fingers to the point where it is cutting off circulation.  You do want the floss to be tight enough to stay around your finger for you to be able to move the floss between your teeth. Gently move between each set of teeth. When you get to the next set, wrap the floss around your finger, which will allow for a clean surface to floss with.

Floss is one of the underused products sitting in bathroom drawers and under sinks. Yet, it is one of the most important items you’ll ever use. Floss daily and your gums will thank you.